Dive into a world of warmth and comfort with this Hearty Cabbage and Sausage Soup. This dish, rooted in traditional culinary techniques, combines the earthiness of cabbage with the robust flavors of sausage. It’s more than just a soup; it’s a hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of some soul-soothing food. Share this delightful recipe with your friends and family, and let the aroma fill your home.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sausage, crumbled
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Olive oil, for sautéing
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
- Sausage Preparation: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Vegetable Sauté: In the same pot, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onions until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Building the Soup Base: Return the browned sausage to the pot. Add the chopped cabbage, carrots, and celery. Stir to combine.
- Season and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Add paprika, black pepper, salt, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Finishing Touches: Adjust seasoning if necessary. Discard the bay leaves.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!
Notes/Conclusion:
The Hearty Cabbage and Sausage Soup is a testament to how simple ingredients can create profound flavors. Each spoonful promises a symphony of tastes, making it a favorite for many households. For a vegetarian twist, replace the sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this soup is sure to warm your heart and soul. Don’t forget to share this comforting delight with friends and family!